It’s almost finally…almost here! Oneida County has taken the mission of creating an amazing celebration of the 250th year since the signing of the Declaration of Independence to heart, and while a number of events have already contained elements of A250 celebration, the community’s “official” kickoff day is this Saturday, June 13. 

The celebration begins at Malad City Park at 5:00 p.m., where a “Food Truck Rally” is scheduled to provide tastes to satisfy most any appetite.  Trucks have been coordinated to make sure there is as much variety as possible, and the weather should be just right for eating, because how could it not be?

In addition, bounce houses will be available with a $7 unlimited jump pass.  The newly opened playground at the park will of course also be open to everyone.

The centerpiece of the evening will be the culminating event of the Race For Independence, which can be found at maladrace.org.

As explained last week, the Oneida County Race for Independence is a community event celebrating America’s 250th anniversary. Inspired by the hit television show, The Amazing Race, teams of four will compete in a fast-paced adventure across Oneida County tackling a series of America 250-themed challenges. 

Tammy Benson created a quilt with the state birds of all 50 states and Washington D.C.

Teams will meet at the Presbyterian Church at 5 S. Main (please park in the courthouse parking lot and walk over to the church) at 12:00 noon on Saturday, June 13, 2026. They’ll be given clues to various locations around the county. At each location, they’ll compete in a challenge designed to test a wide range of skills — physical, mental, and teamwork-based — so every member of your team will have a chance to shine, and win $500 as a team. ($250 for the second place team.)

Organizers are planning to announce the winners of the race that night at 8:30 pm as part of the America 250 kick-off celebration at the city park.

Teams need to be made up of 4 members who are at least 15 years old. Each team will need to have their own vehicle to drive to each of the challenges. The driver must be a member of the team and also be at least 18 years old. The challenges may require getting wet, so please come prepared.

Whether you’re a history buff, a fitness enthusiast, or just love a good competition, the Race for Independence is a unique way to honor 250 years of American history right here in our community. 

Racers should bring a water bottle and snacks. There will be places to fill bottles at each challenge location. The organizers will also be providing dinner for participants.

Please direct questions to the Oneida County Clerk’s office at 208-766-4116. 

Those interested can fill out a volunteer form at maladrace.org or simply show up on race day.

To cap the evening off, a screening of “National Treasure” will be held at the park at dusk. Come watch a classic Nick Cage movie with your friends and family on what will hopefully be a warm summer evening.

Independence Day

This year’s 4th of July Parade theme will be “America 250” to correspond with the national observance of same.  The council announced the Grand Marshals as Larry and Wendy Thomas.  The Honored Pioneer will be Helen Lewis Peterson.  The Honored Veteran is selected by the American Legion, and the Volunteer of the Year is generally announced at the July 3rd festivities. 

The Parade Route will be different this year as a result of construction. 

Proposed parade route for 2026

A time capsule buried 30 or so years ago is set to be opened on the 4th, right at the park at 12 before the kid races.

Events for the Day of the 4th are listed below.